Sylvia Duffy, 23-year-old Christina's older sister, thanked the community for their support and quick actions on Thursday night to rescue the young family.

Speaking to Belfast Live she said: "We just want to thank the whole community, the support of the street was amazing. It is just terrible, there's no words.

"I am thankful they were rescued but I am numb and that wee baby."

The community rallied round in frantic efforts to rescue those inside who were trapped on the first floor.

Neighbours ran to the house and battered the front door down. They also smashed windows to allow thick, black, toxic smoke to escape.

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A firefighter carried the youngster from the house wrapped in a blanket. A hospital spokesman said all three are currently in a critical condition.

A number of residents also had to be treated for the effects of smoke inhalation.

Twenty firefighters were involved in the emergency.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

PSNI Inspector Paul Noble said: "At approximately 11.55pm police received a report that a house was on fire in the Jamiaca Street area of Belfast. Police, NIFRS and NIAS were in attendance at the scene.

"Two adults (a male and female) and a female baby have been taken to hospital for treatment to their injuries.

"The cause of the fire is still under investigation, however I would ask anyone who was in the area at the time of the fire to contact police on the non-emergency number 101, as they may have information which could help police with their investigation."